The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island offers one of the most exclusive and environmentally exceptional accommodations in the United States — a private-island, all-inclusive wilderness experience accessible only by private ferry from Hampton River Club Marina on St. Simons Island, Georgia. The 11,000-acre barrier island is entirely private and hosts a maximum of 32 guests at any time, across a collection of historic hunting lodges and carefully maintained cottages set within old-growth maritime forest and salt marsh.
Little St. Simons Island has been under the ownership of the Berolzheimer family since 1908, originally as a private retreat. The island encompasses seven miles of Atlantic Ocean beach, extensive tidal creeks, oak hammocks draped in Spanish moss, and an estimated 260 species of birds — making it one of the most significant birding locations on the East Coast of the United States. No cars or paved roads exist on the island; all movement is on foot, bicycle, or island-operated 4WD vehicles.
Accommodation includes individual Guestrooms, Suites, and Cottages, all in historic structures dating from the early 20th century. Rooms are comfortably appointed in a rustic-elegant style with natural wood, antique furnishings, and screened porches opening onto maritime forest. All meals are included — served communally or privately — featuring fresh-caught local seafood and seasonal Southern preparation. Activities are naturalist-led: guided birding walks, sea kayaking through tidal creeks, surf fishing, and beachcombing are core to the daily programme.
The property's combination of exclusivity, intact wilderness, personalised service, and all-inclusive pricing consistently earns the Lodge recognition as one of North America's premier eco-luxury destinations. Nesting loggerhead sea turtles (May–August), white-tailed deer, river otters, and dolphins are commonly encountered. The Lodge's strict guest cap and resident naturalist programme ensure a level of personal attention and environmental stewardship that larger properties cannot replicate, and that has earned it sustained international recognition among conservation-minded travellers seeking Georgia's most unspoiled coastal setting.
Room types
- Guestroom
- Suite
- Cottage
Amenities
- All meals included
- Guided naturalist tours
- Sea kayaking
- Fishing
- Bird watching
- Private beach
- Pool
- Limited to 32 guests daily
Location
Little St. Simons Island, GA 31522 (private island; ferry from Hampton River Club Marina)
31.1781, -81.3734 View on map
Highlights
- Private island limited to 32 guests — among the most exclusive resorts in North America
- All-inclusive rates covering meals, guided naturalist tours, sea kayaking, and fishing
- Seven miles of undeveloped Atlantic Ocean beach accessible only to Lodge guests
- 260+ recorded bird species — a premier destination for East Coast birding
- Historic early-20th-century lodges in old-growth maritime forest draped in Spanish moss
Tips for visiting
- Book 6–12 months ahead — the 32-guest limit means high-season dates disappear within hours of becoming available
- Bring insect repellent appropriate for saltmarsh environments; biting insects are prevalent spring through autumn
- Ask the resident naturalist team about optimal birding windows — spring migration (April–May) is exceptional
- The private ferry from Hampton River Club Marina runs at scheduled times — arriving late may mean missing the crossing
- Pack for variable coastal weather; barrier island temperatures and humidity can shift rapidly through the day
Accessibility
Little St. Simons Island's terrain — a wilderness barrier island with sandy tracks, maritime forest paths, and beach access — presents significant challenges for guests with mobility limitations. The Lodge can accommodate guests with moderate mobility restrictions but is not wheelchair-accessible in a conventional sense. Guests with specific accessibility needs should contact the Lodge directly before booking to discuss what accommodation is possible.
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Frequently asked questions
How do guests reach Little St. Simons Island?
The island is reached by a private Lodge-operated ferry departing from Hampton River Club Marina on St. Simons Island. The crossing takes approximately 20 minutes. Guests must pre-arrange ferry timing with the Lodge at the time of booking. Floatplane transfers can also be arranged separately.
What is included in the all-inclusive rate?
The all-inclusive rate covers all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks), guided naturalist activities, use of kayaks and bicycles, fishing equipment, and access to all island habitats and programmes. Some specialised services such as massage are available at additional cost.
Is there Wi-Fi or mobile phone coverage on the island?
Mobile coverage is minimal on Little St. Simons Island, and the Lodge intentionally limits digital connectivity to preserve the wilderness atmosphere. Limited Wi-Fi is available in the lodge buildings. The experience is designed around disconnection from digital technology.
What wildlife can guests expect to encounter?
Little St. Simons Island hosts white-tailed deer, river otters, armadillos, loggerhead sea turtles (nesting May–August), dolphins in coastal waters, and over 260 species of birds. Alligators inhabit the island's freshwater ponds and should be observed from a safe distance as directed by resident naturalists.
Is the island suitable for families with children?
The Lodge welcomes families. Naturalist-guided activities, beach access, and kayaking are well-suited for older children. The island's limited capacity and adult-focused conservation atmosphere mean the experience is most appropriate for families with children aged 8 and over.